GCCC Alumni Spotlight: Trey Fankhouser
Trey Fankhouser, a Goodwell, Oklahoma native, began his journey at Garden City Community College in 2011, choosing GCCC for the opportunity to continue competing in golf while earning a quality education close to home.
As he explains, “I chose Garden City Community College because it gave me the opportunity to continue competing in golf while pursuing my education close to home. I wanted a school that would challenge me academically, help me grow as a student-athlete, and provide a strong foundation for continuing my education at a university level. GCCC gave me that opportunity.”
During his time at GCCC, Fankhouser competed on the Broncbuster golf team while becoming actively involved on campus. He was a member of the Alpha Xi Upsilon Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, where he developed a passion for mentoring and giving back to younger generations.
Looking back, Fankhouser says one of the greatest lessons he learned at GCCC extended
beyond the classroom. 
“The most important thing I learned while attending Garden City Community College was the value of relationships and connections,” he said. “During my time there, I met the person who eventually introduced me to my current employer. That experience showed me that the people you meet, the relationships you build, and the way you treat others can play a major role in your future opportunities. Garden City Community College helped me understand that success is not only about what you know, but also about the connections you make along the way.”
Fankhouser graduated from GCCC in 2013 with an Associate in Science before continuing his education at Oklahoma Panhandle State University. There, he competed as a dual-sport student-athlete in men's basketball and men's golf while earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies, both magna cum laude, along with a minor in Business.
Today, Fankhouser serves as a Financial Advisor and Junior Partner at Hill Wealth Management in Garden City. In his role, he helps clients define their financial goals, understand investment options, build personalized portfolios, and develop retirement and long-term financial plans. He also works closely with clients to monitor progress and provide ongoing financial guidance.
Fankhouser credits Garden City Community College with providing the academic support and personal attention that prepared him for future success.
“Garden City Community College gave me a great head start in my college education and helped build the foundation for my future success,” he said. “One of the biggest advantages was having instructors who were willing to work with me one on one, which gave me a deeper understanding of the subjects I was studying. That personal support helped me develop stronger academic habits, confidence, and critical thinking skills that I was able to carry forward throughout my education at Oklahoma Panhandle State University and into my professional career.”
In addition to his work as a financial advisor, Fankhouser is currently writing The Hero's Guide to Finance: Student Edition, a book designed to help young adults better understand personal finance and prepare for real-world financial decisions. Drawing from his experience as both a financial advisor and former loan officer, he hopes to equip students with practical knowledge about budgeting, credit, debt, investing, and long-term financial planning before they enter the workforce.
When asked what advice he would give current and prospective students, Fankhouser encouraged them to invest in both their education and the people around them.
“My advice to current and prospective Garden City Community College students would be to truly invest in both your education and the relationships around you,” he said. “Take the time to read through your textbooks, ask good questions, and learn as much as you can from your instructors. The effort you put in now will build knowledge and skills that will stay with you for the rest of your life.”
Reflecting on his journey, Fankhouser remains grateful for the experiences and people who helped shape his future.
“Many of the lessons I learned at Garden City Community College, especially the importance of relationships, discipline, and personal growth, continue to influence both my professional career and the work I am doing today,” he said. “Looking back, I am very grateful for the instructors, coaches, teammates, and community that invested their time and support into helping students succeed.”
Fankhouser's journey from student-athlete to financial advisor demonstrates how the relationships, opportunities, and academic foundation built at GCCC continue to shape graduates long after they leave campus.
Garden City Community College is proud to have played a part in Trey Fankhouser’s path. Make a difference for future Busters by starting your own Endowed Scholarship through the GCCC Endowment Association.
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